Huahine

Located 105 miles northwest of Tahiti, Huahine is considered the undiscovered paradise of French Polynesia. With steep, green-clad mountains descending into bays of emerald green and vivid blue waters, the island boasts a picture postcard setting. Huahine itself is actually two islands – Huahine Nui and Huahine Iti (Big and Little Huahine). Both were formed by an ancient volcano whose center collapsed, allowing the ocean to enter. The edges of the remaining volcanic cone create a chain of peaks. The highest is Mount Turi with 2,000 feet. A bridge spans the narrow channel that separates the two islands. There are many legends connected to Huahine. One of them claims that the channel was dug out by the canoe of the god Hiro. The wild but attractive nature of Huahine has been described as secretive and rebellious. Its inhabitants have a long tradition of fierce pride, independence and resistance to change. Less visited than her sister islands of Moorea, Bora Bora and Tahiti, travelers to Huahine find here solitude and relaxation. There is an abundance of long and beautiful white sandy beaches skirting attractive bays, while an abundance of lush, tropical foliage and jungle-like scenery make exploring the interior an adventure. Water melons and cantaloupe are cultivated on islets scattered in the lagoons, and a wide variety of vegetable and fruit crops thrive on the fertile lands. Huahine also boasts one of the most extensive and well-preserved archaeological sites, the Maeva marae, a set of several important ancient temples situated at the foot of Mount Mouatapu and on the edge of Lake Fauna Nui. Fare is the administrative center of the island. It is a pleasant village and harbor located on the west coast of Huahine Nui at the foot of Mount Turi. A 20-mile, scenic road circles the two islands, offering views of breathtaking landscapes and small villages where time seems to have stood still.

Pier Information

The ship is scheduled to anchor off Huahine. Guests will be taken ashore via the ship’s tenders to the wharf at Fare. The village is within walking distance from the pier. Taxis may be available in limited supply.

Shopping

Most of the island’s shops are found along Fare’s main street. An assortment of small stores and boutiques offer local arts and crafts, as well as the famous black pearls. Larger hotels have their own gift shops. The local currency is the euro.

Cuisine

Restaurant choices on Huahine are limited, but the few available here are known for excellent food. A variety of local restaurants offer seafood, Polynesian and Chinese dishes. International cuisine can be found in resort hotels.

Other Sites

Battle of Maeva Monument Opposite Maeva, across the bridge near Marae Manunu, stands this monument marked by seven cannons. It commemorates the unequivocal French rule over Eastern Polynesia, although constitutionally it was only a protectorate until formal annexation in 1880. Private arrangements are not available in this port.